Texarkana Getaway
Texarkana, founded in 1873, is a good target for historical buffs who want a little “buffing” as well. The town is really a twin city as State Line Avenue joins Texarkana, AR with Texarkana, TX. For a relaxing getaway, call the girls and enjoy this double city for a double day.
Day:
1, 2
Day 1
A deluxe day at The Sanctuary Day Spa is a totally pampered and soothing prelude to a first class dinner at one of several fine dining restaurants like Via Roma or Timothy’s before checking into the historic Wadley House (1895 Victorian Queen Anne) or a luxury suite at one of the major hotels for the evening. If nightlife is on your menu, there’s a large choice of clubs and entertainment on both sides of town.
Day 2
On your second day, enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at the beautifully restored 1895 Victorian Queen Anne Garrison-McLain House (next to The Wadley House), then pick up a Discovery Driving Tour CD at the Texarkana Chamber of Commerce to guide you on a special cultural adventure. Or, if you like to walk, pick up a State Line Avenue Walking Tour Guide that notes the history of 22-25 buildings (many still being used), in town. The latter takes about an hour, but is an engaging look at how the past is interwoven with the present.
Start off the day with a photo standing in two states at Photographer’s Island in front of the 1933 Post Office/Federal Courthouse on State Line Avenue before going over to Main Street to enjoy a free tour of the exquisite 1924 historically restored Perot Theatre (call to see if there’s a national or international performance) and the equally stunning 1909 adaptively restored Regional Arts Center with its nationally touring art exhibits.
Note the Scott Joplin Mural which is a stop on the Driving Tour. Visit the unrivaled 22-sided Ace of Clubs House (1885) and the Museum of Regional History (Texarkana’s oldest building-1879) with its professionally designed displays that trace Texarkana’s history from the Caddo Indians to the present. The Four States Auto Museum offers a charming look into transportation of the past (by prior reservation, but free), or visit the many historic downtown churches, antique shops, and additional sights found only in Texarkana AR-TX. .
